Hi everyone and welcome to the first Whitsunday Life for 2024!

I hope everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas and New Years break. For me, I headed back to my parents for the week of Christmas, before coming back up to Airlie Beach for New Years Eve.

And I must say, Airlie Beach certainly knows how to party!

With the amount of visitors we currently have in town, this shouldn’t surprise me, but looking out over the crowds at both the 8.30pm and the 12.00am-midnight firework shows on the Airlie Beach Foreshore, it did astound me how many faces I just did not recognise.

But all in the same, we stood together and joined in the celebrations, with our loved ones beside us.

And in that moment, we all witnessed something spectacular, and welcomed the new year.

Now, of course, it’s New Year, New Me, so here are some of my boxes on my 2024 bingo card.

I want to actually go to Park Run. I signed up months ago and have chickened out every single week on going.

I signed up for netball and soccer last year, and I want to do that again. I loved meeting all the new people and having a regular commitment to sport. It was also so lovely to get out of the house during the week and enjoy the fresh air.

I want to explore the region a little bit more. I was able to tick off Conway Beach last weekend, but I still haven’t gone to Hamilton Island yet. There is just so much beauty in this area and every weekend I need to be out and about.  

What are your resolutions for 2024?

Similar to mine or completely different.

Looking forward, the team at Mackay and Whitsunday Life are excited to continue delivering community-based news for the region, with a particular focus on the joy and happiness that is so rampant in the community.

Cheers to 2024!

For Airlie Beach resident Jj Saleh, establishing the men’s support group was an easy decision, one where he could support and be supported by likeminded men in the region.

“The group allows for a safe space for men to express their feelings, to feel vulnerable, and reintroduce accountability,” Jj explained.

Jj himself is on his own self-healing journey and wished to create a group to foster connection with males, to share and grow.

“I thought it would be good to give back and share what I’ve learnt.”

Having only held a small number of catchups, Jj is excited to grow the group and welcome new men into the weekly meetings.

“I turned to facebook, and had 15 men reach out, however none came to our last meeting for 2023. This caused me to reframe the intentions of the group, because when you come to the group, you’re not just coming for yourself, you’re coming for the other men. You are their support, and you are needed.”

The weekly meetings take place in nature, where breathwork and grounding oneself is critical. This is followed by Individual Share and an accountability pack, a seven-day promise to yourself.

“Everyone shares what they’re going through. And if you don’t want to share, then you have to share why you don’t want to share. This is what brings men together.”

“Female relationships are often the talking to each other, with a task secondary, when, with men, it’s fishing, beers, or sport is the task, and talking rarely happens.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the men who have come along to the meetings, of sharing and supporting each other.”

The group meets weekly, on Thursday evening, 6.30pm, so that members approach the weekend with confidence.

“You know you're supported and you’ve decided your accountability for the week. You won’t drink on the weekend cause you told the boys you wouldn’t on Thursday, that sort of thing.”

To learn more, contact Jj on Facebook or Instagram, @jjsaleh.

Australia Day celebrations have been thrown into disarray, due to false information generated by news outlets, stating that Whitsunday Regional Council has decided to scrap Australia Day Ceremonies and Citizenship Ceremonies.

Whitsunday Regional Council was named alongside Burdekin Shire Council, Bundaberg Regional Council, and Toowoomba Regional Council.

However, Whitsunday Regional Council wishes to share that they have not scrapped Australia Day and Citizenship Celebrations and are gearing up for a big day of fun and festivities.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall said it was disappointing that Council needed to address the recent circulation of false news regarding the cancellation of the Australia Day citizenship ceremony.

“Let me be unequivocally clear: this information is entirely untrue and at no stage did this national media outlet contact the Council to fact check their claims,” she said.

“Australia Day and its associated citizenship ceremony hold immense significance for us as a community.

“It is a day to celebrate our diverse identities, honour our shared values, and welcome new citizens into Our Whitsunday community.

“Any suggestion of cancellation goes against the very spirit of inclusivity that defines our region.

“Our commitment to fostering unity and cultural celebration is unwavering, and we look forward to coming together on Australia Day to mark this important occasion,” Mayor Hall said.

“I encourage our residents to rely on official communications from the Whitsunday Regional Council via our website or Facebook page or statements from Council to our valued local media outlets for accurate information.”

On the Australia Day schedule, from 5pm, the Whitsunday Regional Council is celebrating Australia Day the Whitsunday Way.

5pm will kick off the event with the Citizenship Ceremony, welcoming new members of the community, followed by Australia Day Award Ceremony, acknowledging and honouring those in the region for their outstanding contributions.

Proceeding the ceremonies, there will be a Smoking Ceremony, free lamingtons, live music and free family activities, including wildlife meet and greet, face painting, craft workshops, and fireworks.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone in our community to our Australia Day event,” Mayor Hall said, “and Citizenship Ceremony in Bowen on January 26 where we will welcome more new citizens into our amazing Whitsunday community.”

WHAT: Australia Day

WHERE: Bowen Soundshell, Santa Barbara Parade, Bowen Foreshore

WHEN: Friday, January 26, from 5pm to 8pm

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2023 Australia Day Award recipients. Photo supplied

New data by the National and International Visitor Survey (NVS and IVS) has highlighted the incredible captivation that visitors find with the Whitsundays.

As of September 30, 2023, domestically, the Whitsundays saw 513,000 visitors, an increase of 15.8 per cent over the past three years, with 266,000 or 36.6 per cent, from interstate.

On average, visitors stayed 4.2 nights, down by 1.3 nights over three years, however, spending has increased, with $1.3 billion expenditure, a 28.4 per cent increase over the three years.

Internationally, visitor numbers have jumped from 68,000 to 102,000, from the previous quarter.

This increase coincides with increased stays, with international visitors staying for an average of 8.2 nights, 1.9 nights longer than 2019.

By far, United Kingdom visitors are most popular, with 26,000 arrivals, while North American and German visitor numbers steadily increasing.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton commends the region's resilience and strong return in visitor numbers.

"While not record-breaking this time, these results solidify The Whitsundays' position as an unmatched holiday destination,” he said.

We're seeing a slight shift in length of stay as economic factors influence holiday budgets and duration. However, the Overnight Visitor Expenditure and visitor numbers remain strong, showcasing the enduring appeal of our region. We're incredibly proud of our world-class operators and businesses who continue to deliver exceptional experiences for all visitors, regardless of their budget."

We wish all boaties a safe and enjoyable summer break, and hope that you will not need our ser-vices. But if you do, our dedicated and committed volunteers are available 24/7/365, saving lives at sea.

PREPARATION – One of the keys to safety on the water

The key to safety in a small boat is PREPARATION. Always do all your normal pre-departure checks before leaving home, and again before leaving the boat ramp.

If you are towing a trailer any distance, you will need to have the trailer tyres (treads and pres-sures) and wheel bearings checked. Don’t just walk round and give the wheels a kick. Ensure that the trailer lights work correctly, and rig a tarp or net over the boat to keep everything safely inside the boat. Clean out the fuel tank/s, filters and lines and fill with fresh fuel. Get the engine serviced regularly; double check the batteries and connections. Carry at least basic spares and tools, and know how to use them.

Especially check your normal safety gear (EPIRB, flares, life jackets, V-sheet, etc). Check the Ma-rine Safety Queensland (MSQ) website if you are not sure what is required. We strongly recom-mend the wearing of PFDs or lifejackets in smaller vessels - that simple step may save your life, as well as the lives of your passengers. You must know where the lifejackets are stored, and how to put them on. That simple step may save your life in an emergency.

MSQ refers to “partially smooth waters”.  In the Whitsundays this includes the area from Bowen in the north to south of Midge Point (and generally one nautical mile beyond the main is-lands).  A Partially Smooth Waters map is available for download on the MSQ website.  For infor-mation on safety equipment and licensing regulations, you are advised to check with Maritime Safety Queensland for up to date and accurate information. More detailed links can also be found on the BOATING page on our website  http://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/boating-in-the-whitsundays/

We strongly encourage the use of VHF radio around the islands and further afield, the coverage is much better than a mobile phone. If you do need to call for assistance, the boatie that might be in the next bay can hear you! But you do need to know how to use your VHF – a common error is poor adjustment of the squelch control, effectively stopping you from hearing any transmissions.

The emergency channels are 16 and 67, and we have repeaters on Whitsunday Island (81) and Hayman (82). The repeaters are monitored during the day by the bareboat companies.

Make sure your anchor and rope are in good condition. We recommend at least double the boat length of chain before the rope, and remember that coral and rope don’t get on very well. You will need to use a scope of at least 4:1 (4 times the depth).

Never, Never, Never, underestimate your fuel consumption. Take as an absolute minimum, 25 per cent extra, 50 per cent would be safer, and take it every trip.  Always fill your tanks before you leave, and if you get back to the ramp with less than 25 per cent in your tank you have got it wrong!

Always check the weather forecast and tides (they can be big in the Whitsundays) before you go, and tell someone where you are going, and when you will be back.

VMRW membership is cheap insurance at just $90. You can join online at https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/join/ and your membership helps to keep us going in case you need us. We hope you don’t, but we are here 24/7/365 if you do!

Contributed with thanks to VMR Whitsundays.

By Rachael Smith

The highly anticipated Whitsunday Skyway is set to gain momentum in 2024 and, with firm plans in place, all that remains is to secure the project’s final approvals and finalization of the investment structure. Once this occurs, the Whitsundays could be just two years away from welcoming its largest piece of on-land infrastructure which will completely change the landscape of tourism in the region.

The base station of the Skyway’s cable car structure will be located a short walk from Airlie Beach. It will take guests to a summit within the Conway Ranges where they can marvel at incredible 360-degree views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. Never before has it been possible to give every visitor easy access to one of the best aspects of our region.

Unprecedented Mainland Infrastructure Project

With over 600,000 visitors coming to the Whitsunday region every year - many of them on the 100 plus cruise ships that are expected to arrive in 2024 - it is evident that an on-land activity would boost the visitor experience, especially on a rainy day.

It is with this impetus that local tourism pioneer, Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of the Australian Adventure Tourism Group, decided to create the Whitsunday Skyway as a transformational project which will leave an unparalleled legacy for the region, that the AATG Board is determined to bring to fruition.

Set to attract a diverse range of adventure and leisure seekers, the Skyway will offer much more than a cable car ride to the summit.

Guests can choose from a casual two-hour experience or a multi-day adventure experience.

Immerse themselves in the educational and cultural activities at the Summit Station.

Explore the bush tracks, ride down the hillside on the mountain bike trails, take a luge cart ride, or enjoy the challenge of the junior ropes course.

This dynamic and creative offering will bring a wealth of options to the region’s visitors and Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays Rick Hamilton, says he is excited to throw his support behind the project.

"Tourism Whitsundays is a huge supporter of Whitsunday Skyway,” he shared.

“This is the largest piece of private tourism infrastructure we've seen built in The Whitsundays for a long time and the benefits this project will bring to the area are incredible.

“We are all waiting, as patiently as we can, for the day we can finally celebrate the approvals.”

The inspiring driving force behind the project is AATG, chaired by Elizabeth Hackett who has nursed the seed of the idea for the past 25 years, forming a more concrete plan over the last seven years.

“It was Cyclone Debbie that became the catalyst to advance the project,” said Elizabeth.

“The cyclone highlighted to the Regional and State Industry and Government bodies that Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Region is significantly reliant on marine tourism activities.

“When these tourism activities are not able to meet the needs of visitors, the region was left in a vulnerable position.

“A need for a land-based attraction has been repeatedly highlighted by the tourism sector and is strongly supported by stakeholders in the region.”

At this stage the Skyway is in the detailed assessment stage under the Queensland Government’s Exclusive Transactions Framework and a process deed has been signed with the State specific conditions that must be addressed before they consider granting land tenure for the project.

It has taken several years of patient negotiation to reach this stage and Elizabeth is feeling hopeful that permission will be granted this year.

Once all approvals are confirmed, it will take between 18 months and two years for construction to be complete.

During this time 400 full-time staff will be needed for construction and, once the project is complete, 140 new jobs will be needed for operation.

A further 591 indirect jobs are also expected.

The Skyway is projected to bring around $38.4 million of new spending per annum, which would have a net overall impact on the economy of $27.6 million after approximately three years.

It is also anticipated that the Skyway has the potential to lengthen the region’s visitation by between 0.25 and one bed nights per visitor.

Currently looking for sophisticated investors, Whitsunday Skyway is now seeking $5-$6 million to deliver a de-risked project, ready for the final investment strategy to be concluded later this year.

“This will be a benchmark tourist attraction,” explained Elizabeth.

“To date this project has received enormous support from all stakeholders, we look forward to its continued support as the project progresses the approval process.

“On our watch, we will achieve it!”

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An aerial view of the Whitsunday Skyway showing the location of the project. Photo supplied

Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays Rick Hamilton, Publicity and Communication Executive of Tourism Whitsundays, Cait Fleming and Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of the Australian Adventure Tourism Group. Photo credit: Jake Greenfield.

Student Council Executives

Amber Van Moolenbroek

Being a leader allows Amber to give back to her school, and she says it “fosters my own self-improvement.”

“The role of a student leader, as I see it, is to be a role model. To inspire students, no matter their learning styles, to be prepared for all things.”

Jesselyn Hynard

“I desire to see change within my school community, by creating an environment that encourages engagement and equality.”

Eager to get into the role, Jesselyn has already introduced a cooking club, and “A program that would allow for students to develop their out of school skills, while providing them with funded meals and an environment to build friendships.”

Elizabeth Menzies

Arts Captain

Jasmine Dunkerton

Wishing to give back to the school that influenced her so much, Jasmine is excited to get started promoting the arts.

“I wanted to give back to the school as well as being a drama student. There are not too many opportunities in small towns to become an actor and more,” she said.

“My role is for all students in music, drama, and art, to take on their idea’s listen to make 2024 an important year for their future careers.”

Charley Petersen

Kennedy Vice and House Captains

Ethan Jones

For Ethan, being a leader means expanding his skills and assisting the school.

“I am definitely most proud of being a leader in 2024, that can push the potential of others around them to do great work and be great people.”

Shanayd Otto

Shanayd aims to be a leader to assist students and bring about a positive influence on their lives.

“As a leader in 2024, I will be proud to see more people at all the good events the school has and hopefully having a positive impact on people.”

Cook Vice and House Captains

Annabelle Payne

Annabelle sees the role of a student leader as very serious and fulfilling.

“An initiative I will pursue as a leader in 2024, is to make carnivals as fun as they can be and promote school spirit that all students at BSHS want to be a part of.”

Tyler Jankowski

Sturt House Captain

Abel Cookson

Abel wants to aspire students to take part and have fun in all aspects of school, promoting healthy living, sport, and school activities and events.

And of course: “I am proud to be leading our school sports house, Sturt, to an epic victory in 2024!”

Kelise Gobbert

Drink Driving Of A Vessel, Airlie Beach

A 34-year-old Jubilee Pocket man has been arrested and charged by police following an alleged incident at about 3:35pm on January 1 in Airlie Beach.

Police were located at New Beach on an unrelated matter when they intervened the man, who had just travelled to New Beach in a vessel.

Following this conversation, the 34-year-old was arrested outright for operating the vessel while under the influence of liquor.

He was taken to the Whitsunday police station and following further analysis his breath alcohol concentration was alleged to be 0.171%.

He was charged with being under the influence of liquor while operating a vessel, operating a vessel while holding a disqualified licence and operating an unregistered vessel.

Unlawful Possession Of Fireworks, Airlie Beach

A 34-year-old male resident of Manoora has been served with a notice to appear in court by police following an alleged incident at 10:45pm on December 31 on Shute Harbour Road in Airlie Beach.

It is alleged that fireworks were let off at a venue on Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach. Security officers intervened and contacted police.

Upon police arrival it is alleged officers spoke with the male and then located a bag of fireworks in his nearby parked car.

He was issued with a notice to appear for the offence of unlawful possession of fireworks.

House Fire, Bowen

A single storey home in Bowen erupted in flames at 11.15pm on December 29.

The fire was quickly contained at the home, on Richmond Road, with two Queensland Fire and Emergency Services attending.

The sole occupant of the home was taken to Bowen Hospital, and Queensland Police have declared the fire non-suspicious.

The famous Bowen mango man, Patrick Martin, and his wife Sylvie have stepped away from their iconic mango sorbet business, after more than 25 years.

Patrick arrived in Australia from France in 1971, travelling via boat and landing at Shepperton. He initially lived in Bowen and picked tomatoes before he decided to travel around Australia.

He landed back in Bowen after some time and met his soon-to-be wife, Sylvie, also from France.

They met while picking Bowen tomatoes and have never looked back.

From here, the pair become integral to the Bowen community, opening Patrick and Sylvie’s Restaurant for a number of years before heading off on travels again.

Back in Bowen, the pair were selling French pastries at Airlie Beach Foreshore Markets when they met another man making fruit sorbets.

“And I was like ‘That’s a bloody good idea!’” Patrick explained.

Once having the equipment, Patrick and Sylvie began with all sorts of fruits, however, after two years, the mango was proving the most popular.

“And that’s when Mango Sorbets were born.”

Using the Bowen Special, Kensington Pride Mangoes, the Mango Sorbets are purely sweet and delicious, and Patrick couldn’t tell you how many sorbets he’s made in his 25-year career.

13 years ago, Patrick and Sylvie signed on to supply Bowen Information Centre with Bowen Mango Sorbet.

This past calendar year alone, the Bowen Information Centre has sold more than 23,500 mango sorbets and have likely supplied the Centre with over two million sorbets for the past 13 years.

“Patrick and Sylvie have been supplying these delicious treats to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on a weekly, and sometime daily, basis for so many years,” explained Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy.

Patrick and Sylvie have handed the reins to Bowen local, Stackelroth Farms, and are excited to ease into relaxation, and travel wherever and whenever he and Sylvie can.

Leanne describes the sale of the sorbet business as the end of an era but said she was looking forward to working with the girls from Stackelroth Farms.

“Patrick is a real character and we always looked forward to his delivery of sorbets as the whole team has such a great working relationship with him.

“We thank Patrick and Sylvie for their excellent service to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre and wish them both well in retirement.”

“We also congratulate Stackelroth Farms on taking on the supply of this iconic Bowen product.

“Although the business is under new ownership, we know the sorbets are still 100 per cent natural and made from Kensington Pride mangoes grown here in Bowen.”

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Sylvie and Patrick Martin handing the reigns of Bowen Mango Sorbet with Stackelroth Farms. Photos supplied

Budget airline Bonza is in hot water, with a series Christmas and New Year flight cancellations, disrupting holiday plans and causing chaos for travellers.

Earlier in 2023, Bonza announced a new airline hub in the Gold Coast, connecting much of east coast Australia with affordable flights, however, the launch flight from Whitsunday Coast Airport, scheduled for December 7, was postponed a number of times, before the airline was successful able to take to the airs.

Initially, the delays were due to Bonza leasing two Canadian planes and crew, and the necessary checks required from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

However, the eventual approval received for these two aircrafts has a caveat.

Bonza is only able to utilise these planes until March 2024.

Bonza CEO Tim Jordan said that “Bonza has received regulatory approval for the two additional aircraft to service flights out of our Gold Coast base.”

“And we’re scaling up our operations so we can service new routes like Mackay and Whitsundays. We’re committed to the Mackay and Whitsundays region and will remain focused on delivering low-cost air travel that is reliable and refreshingly different for our customers,” he said.

“Aviation in Australia is just about the most concentrated business sector in Australia with 94 per cent in the hands of two airline groups, an effective duopoly. We’re really in a Shazza vs Goliath battle to get more choice and lower fares to Australians. However, that road won’t be easy and occasionally we’ll get things wrong, and we will learn from that.”

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Bonza cancelled a series of flights from the region, disrupting holiday plans. Image supplied

Technology may have changed the way we plan our daily lives but many people still like a good old fashioned calendar to hang on the wall.

A traditional calendar gives you the chance to see at a glance who has a birthday coming up and add other appointments on the go for all in the household to see.

It also a great chance to display lovely photos and the 2024 Bowen calendar is the perfect example.

For the first time last year, Bowen Tourism and Business produced a calendar with photos of Bowen’s beaches and other landmarks.

The calendars proved so popular that the team at Bowen Tourism decided to produce another calendar.

This 13 month calendar starts in January 2024 and includes January 2025.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said these calendars made perfect gifts and had already proved popular over the festive season.

“If you haven’t got you copy yet, we encourage you to call in at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango, just 5km south of the town.”

The calendars are also available at other outlets around Bowen.

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Ellie Palmero and Leanne Abernethy from Bowen Tourism and Business with the 2024 calendars. Image supplied

Happy New Year to the Whitsundays business community, our broader community and all our wonderful visitors!

Despite the heat, a great vibe is clearly evident around town.

Seeing as it is a new year, it’s a great time to think about what your business resolutions might look like.

Business resolutions are commitments businesses make to improve their strategy, operations, or processes. Like personal New Year's resolutions, business resolutions can help prioritise goals or activities that may have got swept aside in 2023 or provide some inspiration or renewed interest in improving some aspect of your business.  

The start of the calendar year is ideal opportunity to look at existing processes with fresh eyes, review customer and staff feedback, and explore new possibilities and opportunities.

In 2024, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry will continue to build on 2023’s achievements. Last year was an important year for the Chamber as we revitalised our strategy and operations to drive sustainable business growth and connectivity for our members.

In the year ahead, we look forward to hosting the inaugural Whitsundays Business Conference (Friday 31 May) that will bring the region’s business community and stakeholders together for a day of education, inspiration, celebration, and connection.

We will also be launching some new and exclusive opportunities for our members including a roundtable program to exchange knowledge and ideas, a service to support business grant applications and the opportunity to partner with the Chamber for grants, and a potential industrial relations service to ensure our members are informed and compliant to new workplace changes coming.

Here’s to a prosperous and rewarding 2024.

Four new police officers have hit the ground running in the Mackay and Whitsunday District and can now say they have the busy Christmas and New Year period under their belt.

The four new officers have a range of experience and knowledge behind them and bolster the expertise and ground crew of the region’s officers.

Constable Erin North, posted to the Mackay Police Station, previously worked in administration in Brisbane.

Constable Dan Larose, posted to the Bowen Police station, has worked as a diesel fitter and was also a QRL referee in Gladstone.

Constable Darcie Jones, posted to the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station, comes from Kingaroy where she worked in administration.

Constable Peter Coker, posted to the Mackay Police Station, comes from Brisbane where he worked as a supervisor.

These officers underwent a 10-week application process before completing eight months of academy training, at Brisbane’s Oxley campus, of the Queensland Police Service Academy.

The Officers are now a part of the First Year Constable Program, and will receive further development and training, primarily on the job. The program encompasses eight-week mentorship, with an experience Field Training Officer, to learn and develop the basic competencies of General Duties policing.

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The four new Mackay and Whitsunday Region police officers. Photo supplied

Since its inception as a leading counselling and support organisation, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network has stood by it’s community grounded roots, of being present for every single resident and community member in the Whitsundays region, and providing support in every facet of mental health.

Established in 2016, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) aims to be a haven for anyone who is struggling with mental health, by removing stigma, raising awareness, and opening the opportunity for free and productive conversation.

With the Whitsundays recognised as being above state and national average in suicide number and over the years, WSPN, as an organisation, has grown and developed into the hub that it is today, so support mental health and suicide prevention, much of the Whitsundays community have gotten behind the organisation.

“Community support and donations assists us to continue those in our community who need the help,” explained Mel Turner, Committee Member and Secretary of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

“And for all the support, we are grateful.”

Just in 2023, Lions Club of the Whitsundays pledged a portion of proceeds from their annual Lions Golf Day, gifting WSPN with $4,000 to fund counselling services, including post-suicide resilience counselling.

Horsepower Heroes, a not-for-profit organisation that raises awareness and funds for mental health in the Whitsunday region, gifted close to over $10,000 across the year, from their annual Horsepower Heroes Day and other events.

Fight Night, organised and hosted by PCYC Whitsundays named WSPN a beneficiary of the event, and Blokes in Business, a men’s group who regularly meet, continue to donate to WSPN, in order to help fund the array of services offered.

“It’s amazing the support we are gifted from the community, which we invest back into the community to support mental health, suicide prevention, and counselling,” Ms Turner said.

For those seeking assistance or support, here are just a small sample of the services available from Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network:

Aided by community support, WSPN have been able to further develop and engage with the community.

Yearly, WSPN host and fund the b kinder Programs in the region’s schools, to promote kindness. WSPN also hosts b kinder Day, on June 22, in the region’s schools, to further establish the need for kindness, connection, inclusivity and positivity.

WSPN have also partnered with the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys to deliver the Resilience Project across the region’s early learning centres and schools. The Resilience Project aims to deliver positive mental health strategies to prevent mental ill-health and build young people’s capacity to deal with adversity and it’s been proven to work.

In recent years alone, WSPN have been able to donate $14,000 for The Resilience Project, to support the introduction of the Early Years Program into the region's early learning centres.  

“With our early year’s intervention programs, we are investing back into our region’s schools and our kids,” Ms Turner said.

“We fund and offer these programs to the schools at no cost, which is allowing amazing resources to be accessible for our kids.”

Breathwork is paramount to aiding and supporting people through the challenges they face daily, with WSPN hosting Breathwork Sessions across the region for everyone in the community.

“Using our facilitators, we can offer breathwork sessions free for the community,” said Ms Turner.

Breathwork has been identified to help connect the body and mind, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Every year, in September, WSPN host a memorial service, for those lost due to suicide. This community memorial is a way for people impacted by suicide to come together, connect and reconnect in the spirit of hope, comfort, and inspiration. This annual community memorial aligns with World Suicide Prevention Day and promotes group connection and healing following a loved one’s suicide.

WSPN offer free counselling for post-suicide resilience, for loved ones and others impacted by a recent suicide or suicide attempt. These counselling services are free for recipients, funded by WSPN.

“If we are aware, we can contact the individual, or the Police may forward our contacts onto the loved ones,” Ms Turner explained.

“Or they can directly reach out and contact us, so we can begin to assist them.”

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network also offers free Suicide Prevention Training, delivered by Community Response to Eliminate Suicide (CORES). These free training sessions are funded by WSPN and allow community members to be trained and educated on suicide behaviours, such as signs to recognise, how to support, and how to promote help-seeking behaviours.

The training also provides self-care strategies, in order to look after themselves.

“The Suicide Prevention Training is also faucet of suicide prevention that we deliver to the community,” explained Ms Turner.

“We reinvest back into the community to fund and deliver this training, reinvesting into mental health, suicide prevention and support. By making this training free and accessible to the community, we are getting invaluable knowledge and education into the community.”

To learn more about Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, to donate, and to access their services, visit their website https://wspn.org.au/, or their Facebook page.

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Lions Club of Whitsundays donation to WSPN, from their annual Charity Golf Day

Horsepower Heroes supporting WPSN

Blokes in Business enjoying a beer and donating to WSPN. Photos supplied

The Whitsundays is currently in the midst of stinger season, with many popular beaches falling prey to jellyfish.

As the waters warm up, typically from November to May, the region becomes a hotspot for various species of jellyfish, posing a potential threat to swimmers and beachgoers. Adding to the challenge, northerly winds during this period can exacerbate the situation. Understanding the dynamics of jellyfish season and taking preventative measures is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience in this tropical paradise.

Jellyfish, including the infamous box jellyfish and the less venomous but still troublesome irukandji, thrive in warmer waters. The northerly winds that sweep across the Coral Sea during this season bring these gelatinous creatures closer to the shores. To stay safe, it is essential to be aware of local warnings and closures, which are typically communicated through signs, lifeguards, and official announcements.

Preventative measures include wearing protective clothing such as stinger suits, designed to minimize skin exposure to potential jellyfish stings. Applying vinegar to tentacle stings helps neutralize toxins. It's also advisable to swim in designated safe areas, as some beaches may have protective enclosures or stinger nets in place.

In addition to protective measures, staying informed about weather conditions and heeding advice from local authorities is paramount. By taking these precautions, residents and visitors can continue to enjoy the beauty of the Whitsunday’s beaches while minimizing the risks associated with jellyfish season and northerly winds.

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The typical sign outlining the dangers of stingers. Photo supplied